Students of Sustainability (SoS) is the longest running student organised conference of it's kind in Australia. Since its beginning in Canberra in 1991, SoS has become the premier event on the calendar of Australian Student Environment Network (ASEN).

SOS is a five-day event which focuses on, and explores, environmental and social justice issues, and practical solutions. It includes workshops, forums, plenaries, excursions and entertainment.

SoS gives delegates and attendees the opportunity to network and link with like-minded people from all around the country, with the aim to share visions, plans and goals for positive change in tomorrow's Australia, today.

The conference is open to anyone with a passion for sustainability and for making a difference to their lives, the lives of those around them, the community and the environment. The conference attracts academics, Aboriginal elders, students change-makers and campaigners.

SOS aims to articulate the challenges posed by the present ecological crisis, not merely to our energy supplies or regulatory regimes, but to the foundations of our economic and social system; to the stories we tell, how we think, what we create and who we are. It is a unique event with a defining role in the Australian environmental movement, and all movements, working towards a sustainable and ethical society.

Just to be clear, Students are anyone willing and eager to learn! We invite people from all walks of life and all ages to attend.

In 2018, SOS will be held in Naarm (so-called Melbourne), Victoria on Wurundjeri Country as part of the Kulin Nation. This year runs from the 7th - 11th July 2018, with set up on the 6th - and pack down on the 12th. Keep your eyes out for the post-SOS Road Trip too!

frequently asked questions

Q. What does the ticket price cover?A. The ticket prices covers the entire conference, including all workshops and sessions. It also gets you five days of wonderful conference food and camping.

Q. When should I arrive?A. We recommend coming on the 6th July to put up your tent and help us set up.

Q. Do you need to bring camping gear? Do I have to camp? Are there other options?A. Yes you will need a tent, sleeping bag/bedding. To keep tickets prices low and in the spirit of tradition we will be camping, so come along and pitch a tent. If you don't have a tent, make a note on your registration form and we may be able to lend you one.If you have a specific reason why you can't camp you can get in touch at sosmelb18@gmail.com. If you just don't feel like camping, you will have to organise alternative accommodation and purchase a conference-only ticket. We can suggest couchsurfing or air B&B or a hostel in town.

Q. What's the weather in Melbourne like in July?A. Weather in Melbourne during winter can be a little nippy, but also pretty unpredictable. Average temperatures in Narrm in July are 10 degrees in the day and can drop to 0 at night.

Q. Is the venue accessible?Ensuring SOS is accessible to all participants is very important to us. Once we have secured our venue we will be providing detailed information regarding the physical spaces and conference timetable. Until then, please get in touch if you have questions about accessibility needs.

Q. Can I camp at SOS on the final night?A. Yes, camping will be available on the final night (the 11th) with breakfast available on the morning for those who are traveling home that day. We encourage people to stay that night so you can join in on the final night party!

Q. Can I bring my children along to the conference? Do I have to purchase a ticket for them?A. SOS is a child friendly conference! Children under the age of 12 are free but must be accompanied by an adult. Please make a note when you register if you are bringing any kids and what their ages are. Childcare will be available during the day free of charge.​Q. Will there be a road trip after SoS?A. Yes, as per usual there will be a week-long road trip after SOS. Lock in the week after and check out the Facebook event for more details or fill out the rego form for more info.​